The world is still partly monitoring Croatia, which is good for the country, but it also sees Croatia as a cooperation partner, the Croatian president said addressing those present - members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the Croatian government and parliament and other dignitaries.
Mesic underlined that Croatia today was negotiating with the European Union about its membership, expressing conviction the entry talks would be completed by the end of next year.
"Croatia doesn't want to and will not lag behind. Croatia will not separate itself. Croatia is and will remain a full member of the international community. Croatia is a country that will justify its place in the UN and hopefully soon in the UN Security Council (as a nonpermanent member) through constructive activities," Mesic said.
Addressing those present, PM Sanader said Croatia wanted to be part of a solution that the UN will provide when it came to global challenges.
"However, we will not forger our role in this part of Europe where there are still challanges for both the UN and the EU, as well as for the neighbouring countries in Southeast Europe," Sanader said.
Those present were also addressed by UNDP permanent representative Jurij Afanasijev who underlined Croatia's role in the region and expressed hope the country would become a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council.
Croatian Parliament deputy speaker Luka Bebic said that Croatia had five peace operations on its territory and that the country was now participating in 11 peace operations around the world.